On Wednesday 20^th April we were delighted to welcome the Hill Barn Golf Club Ladies Section to see for themselves the impact that their donation of £2,700 has made at Ferring Country Centre. The money was used to convert the old reception area into an additional classroom space in the Day Service building. The work included; the removal of a wall to create additional spaces and replace the carpet with hardwearing washable flooring. An internal door was added and new furniture purchased also.

Wendy Smith, who drove the fundraising efforts, explained that the money had been raised through various different events, including a ‘4 rounds in one day’ golf challenge! She said it was lovely to see the Day Service customers enjoying the classroom space. The ladies took it in turns to meet some of the Day Service customers and see some of the work that they were doing in the classroom.

The classroom has been named ‘Aherne’ in memory of Win Aherne who had strong connections with the Centre both as a supporter and as the mother of Jamie, a Day Service customer who has attended Ferring Country Centre for 23 years. She was a great baker and will probably be best remembered for the wonderful cakes she used to supply for the plant sale. Jamie was able to meet the HBGC ladies, thank them and have his photo taken next to the plaque with them.

Jamie's brother and sister-in-law, Mike and Mary Aherne, also attended the event and shared tea and delicious cake with the fundraisers in Ranger’s Café.

Wendy and the ladies were given a tour around the farm, allotment and stables to see the range of facilities and activities on offer at the Centre. They told us afterwards how enjoyable and informative the visit had been. Some hadn’t been to Ferring Country Centre for a while and were amazed at the changes which have been made.

A lovely afternoon was spent and everyone agreed that it had been an uplifting occasion. We are so grateful for the generosity of supporters such as HBGC Ladies Section, as their help enables us to upkeep our wonderful facilities for adults with learning disabilities.